Entrepreneurs should be careful what they reveal to journalists since what you say can be immortalized in print. Although the press is useful for a startup, they should be used effectively and correctly to move your business forward. Here are 5 things entrepreneurs should never say to journalists.

‘I’ll pay you to write it.’ – It is best not to approach a journalist with these words. Since most journalists will only write a story if they believe that it is interesting to them. Therefore, find a journalist that will appreciate your story and will offer your decent media coverage.

‘I must review it before you publish.’ – It is important to note that once the interview has ended, you will not have control of the outcome. The journalist will always write a story from their perspective and you have no right to review the article before it goes to print.

‘Can you hold, please?’ or, Sorry, let’s do it another day.’ – Journalists will not like to be told that you will call them back. This is mainly because a journalist has limited time and often have stressful schedules. Therefore, when a journalist approaches you for an interview, do not let the opportunity slip.

‘Is this is off the record?’ – If you are going to answer a question that you don’t want on the record, say it before you answer.

‘You didn’t include me in your article.’ – Not every interview will go into print, therefore you may be left out of a story. However, this is part of the process, it is best to think twice about interviewing with that journalist rather than asking why you weren’t included in the article.